Course Overview

Literacy is a unique degree subject that is not only in tune with national and international priorities, but also allows students to develop their own literacy and creativity skills. Using advanced technologies and cutting edge theories students will explore contemporary literacies, as well as more traditional forms of literacy. The latest classroom theories, techniques and pedagogical practices are examined. This enables students to gain an in depth knowledge of the current trends and issues surrounding education in Wales, and the wider world. Creativity is also a key theme throughout the course and students will be able to develop their knowledge of children's literature for example, as well as taking part in exciting creative projects.

You will develop knowledge and understanding of significant themes in the promotion of oracy, reading and writing. Key issues explored include defining literacy, creativity, the use of technologies, children's literature, adult literacy a​nd bilingualism. Practical placements are embedded within the course with a view to developing employability skills in a range of different learning environments.

You can combine Literacy with the following subjects and graduate with the following named degree:

Course Content

In addition to the specialist Literacy modules all students also undertake core modules. These are designed to help you develop academic and research skills required for successful study within higher education, and to help you both to explore future options for employment and to develop employability skills.​

The Literacy modules are:

Year One:

Once Upon a Time: Stories of Literacy and Stories for Children (20 credits)​

This module explores the history of literacy education. It involves visits to various educational settings to enhance understanding such as: primary schools; secondary schools; castles; and outdoor learning environments. You will also be given the opportunity to develop your storytelling and technology skills.

To Infinity and Beyond! Development of Personal Literacy and Creativity Skills (20 credits)

During this module you will develop your personal literacy and creativity skills. Traditional grammar and punctuation will be examined alongside creative projects. There will also be an opportunity to see these skills being taught in schools and other educational settings.

The Mind Inside the Cave (10 credits)

This module looks at some of the major educational theories on how children develop communication skills. The theories of Piaget, Vygotsky, Skinner, Rogers and others are analysed. You will also learn how these theorists have shaped and continue to influence contemporary thinking, practice and policy. In term two there is a short placement at a primary school to see theories in practice.

Core Modules:

Skills for Success in Higher Education (10 credits)

This module will help you develop an awareness of the essential skills required for successful academic engagement, including the skills of writing for different audiences, presenting, referencing and accessing/using online resources. You will be encouraged to develop critical self-reflection skills which will enable you to set targets for further academic development.

Developing Work-Based Skills (10 credits)

Using lectures, e-lectures and workshops you will be introduced to the knowledge and skills required for graduate level employment, including self-employment and entrepreneurship. You will evaluate your own skills and related career intentions and investigate opportunities and challenges with respect to employability.

Year Two:

Gruffaloes, Heffalumps, Hunger Games and Hogwarts (20 credits)

This module focuses on reading and writing in schools and other educational contexts. The different debates surrounding the teaching of reading and writing are analysed. In particular, the role of children's literature is examined. Is children's literature merely a tool to teach reading and writing or is its power potentially far greater? Does it also provide a lens through which we may view cultural trends and power structures in society?

In a Galaxy Not So Far Away (20 credits)

'Contemporary Literacies' and 'Multimodality' are the focus for this module. You will study cutting-edge theories surrounding literacy, creativity and communication using multimodal technologies. This module will include the development of your own technology skills. Visits to schools to view the latest technologies are embedded throughout this module to allow you to see theory in practice.

Bilingualism and Multilingualism (10 credits)

Bilingualism and multilingualism are examined during this module in the context of literacy education. Students will explore the diversity of languages that coexist in today's multicultural society and the dynamics of their interplay. The importance of the Welsh language and its impact on Welsh culture is also examined. This module is not only intellectually enriching in its own right, but also gives students an advantage in terms of future training and employment in educational settings because it is in keeping with government policy and legislation. No previous language experience or qualification is necessary for this module.

Core Modules:

Work-related Placement: Managing Yourself and Others (10 credits)

Linked to a week-long placement in a work setting, this module aims to develop key employability skills. You will develop key communication skills associated with employment in relevant professional contexts. The placement takes place in a setting of your choice where possible. You will also have the opportunity to extend your placement by mutual agreement with providers.

An Introduction to Academic R​esearch (10 credits)

This module aims to provide you with an understanding of key concepts relating to academic research and the research process. It will provide you with the requisite knowledge to enable you to conduct the extended independent project in your final year. In addition to generic content relevant to all students, you will receive support tailored toward your chosen subject.

Year Three:

Dancing to Different Beats: Literacy for Learners with Specific Learning Difficulties(20 credits)

This module involves exploring the impact of specific learning difficulties on academic, social and emotional development and socio-economic progression. Students will analyse a range of intervention strategies aimed at developing literacy skills for individuals with specific learning difficulties. The module will include practical experiences in Special schools and the opportunity to see theory in practice.

Lights, Camera, Action! Community Literacy (20 credits)

Adult literacy and community engagement are at the heart of this module. Through practical placements, students will complete a research project that will investigate strategies designed to promote family literacy. The concepts of social inclusion and exclusion, and the relationship between poverty and educational attainment will be explored. Students will be able to explore adult literacy and its impact in different cultural contexts whilst making a positive contribution to a local community.

Core Modules:

Independent Project (40 credits)

You will complete an independent research or enquiry-based project of a practical or theoretical nature. This will enable you to demonstrate independence in your approach to research and enhance your project planning experience. You will receive guidance and support from a supervisor.

Learning & Teaching

We adopt innovative and engaging teaching approaches designed to accommodate a range of learning needs. This includes: workshops; seminars; research seminars; lectures; virtual learning environments; away days; work-based placements; field trips; and visits. All students get indoor and outdoor experiences of learning by spending time in classrooms and various outdoor settings including the University's outdoor learning centre. Pastoral and tutorial support is provided and integrated within course provision.

Assessment

Assessments are designed to maximise students’ potential and provide realistic opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge in different ways. Essays and exams are used alongside innovative approaches such as: resource creation; blog debate; running workshops; outdoor activities; presentations; posters; observation and online portfolios.

Employability & Careers

Employability skills are generated both through experience in work-based settings and also in the teaching and learning environment. Practical competencies (such as safeguarding, working with children and supporting individual needs) will be nurtured through placements, taught content and independent study, all key for future employability. We have strong links with a range of local schools and other organisations working with children and young people and can help you arrange voluntary and allocated placements throughout the degree. The lecture team runs creative, ICT and Outdoor Learning Projects with local schools and community groups and encourage students to take an active volunteering role.

Our graduates access a range of jobs and employment opportunities including further study in education via the Post Graduate Certificate in Education or Graduate Teacher Programme, Master’s and PhD studies in the field of Education and other specific areas of interest. Our graduates have pursued many different careers which include teaching, project leadership, social care roles, educational welfare, special needs support work, local education officers for local education authorities and many more.

Progression to PGCE Teacher Training:

We are pleased to guarantee entry to the interview process for the PGCE Primary Course at Cardiff Met for all graduates of this programme. An Honours degree minimum classification of a 2:2 is currently required, and the statutory entry requirements (including B grades or equivalent at GCSE for English and Maths, C grade for Science) must also be met.

Entry Requirements & How to Apply

For further information on entry requirements and how to apply for the joint honours programme, please refer to theJoint Honours Course Overview.

Key Facts

Place of Study: Cardiff School of EducationCyncoed Campus

Course Length:Three years​ full-time.

International Applicants:Before making an application, international students (those outside of the EU), should contact the International Office at Cardiff Met to discuss the necessary procedures in relation to studying with us. For further information visit
www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/international.

Tuition Fees, Student Finance & Additional Costs For up to date information on tuition fees and the financial support that may be available whilst at university, please refer to www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/fees. For information on any potential additional course costs, please refer to
www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/additionalcosts.

Bursaries & Scholarships: The university also offers a bursary and scholarship scheme to help students whilst at university. To see if you are eligible, visit
www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/scholarships.​